Here is my conclusion after reviewing everyone’s feedback:
For refinance orders, the signing must take place on the date shown on the documents. The “TBD” only refers to the time, not the date. Any change to the signing date must be approved by the title company or lender before proceeding.
Explanation:
In refinance (and most loan) packages, the date printed on the documents — especially the Note, Deed of Trust/Mortgage, and Right to Cancel — is legally tied to the loan’s funding and rescission timeline.
“TBD” simply means the appointment time was not set when the order was issued. It allows you flexibility to coordinate with the signer on the same date, but not to move the signing earlier or later.
Only the title company or lender can authorize a new signing date, and if they do, they will typically reissue the documents reflecting the new date.
Some documents cannot be signed ahead of the closing date. Some Lenders will not accept a split signing. I would put a note on Signing Order as soon as it was known that both signers cannot sign on the 7th. Since the 7th was a Tuesday, you would have known whether a split signing is permitted by Monday the 6th. They can find a notary for the husband in his location if permitted. If they must both be present, the appointment would have to be rescheduled to accommodate that stipulation.
Definitely not comfortable dropping in a drop box, even if they tell me it’s okay to do so… Nope! I will cover my rear end. If they were my docs., I would never drop in a box… without a receipt OR proof the docs. are in good hands. No, no, nope…
When a signer requests a new signing date, I always explain to them that I can’t change the date and they have to call the title company or lender. If they just want to change the time, I’ll agree on a new time with them and then email the title company and let them know what I have agreed on with the signer. If they have any problem with it, they’ll tell me but it’s typically okay with them, and they just send me a new confirmation with the revised time.
I agree. If the assignment is announced as REFI 10/17/2025 TBD – I take that to mean the signing time is flexible. I might respond with my specific availability: “I am available 10/17/2025 at 10AM if documents are ready to print; and my rate is $xxx.”
If the assignment is announced as REFI TBD - It might sound like date and time are flexible, but I expect NOT for the exact reasons you outline. I would still reply with my specific availability: “I am available 10/17/2025 at 10AM if documents are ready to print; and my rate is $xxx.”
Explanation:
Absolutely! 